· Fries (Base): 28 oz (800g) frozen French fries (thick-cut or crinkle-cut recommended to hold up to toppings) . You can use homemade if preferred .
· Meat: 1 lb (450g) ground beef and 1 small diced onion .
· Seasoning (For Beef): 1 tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika . Plus, ½ tsp chili powder, salt, and pepper .
· Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1½ cups (360ml) whole milk, and 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar .
· Toppings: ½ cup bacon bits, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or pickles .
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Fries: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake frozen fries for 20–25 minutes (or until golden and crispy), as toppings can make them soggy later .
- Brown the Beef: While baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef and diced onions until the meat is browned (5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper .
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flavor. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar until fully melted and creamy .
- Assemble & Melt: Place crispy fries in a baking dish. Layer the seasoned beef and bacon evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, then sprinkle extra shredded cheese for texture. Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden .
💡 Serving & Customization Tips
· Instant Upgrade: Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and a splash of pickle juice for a “special sauce” to drizzle on top .
· Fresh Finishes: Add coolness with sour cream or fresh herbs like parsley or green onions to cut through the richness .
· Heat Lovers: Swap the cheddar for pepper jack or add fresh jalapeño slices for a spicy kick .
· Consistency Checks: The cheese sauce may look too thin at first but will thicken as it cools . For the best crunch, serve immediately .